About World No Tobacco Day
World No Tobacco Day, held every year on 31 May, was created by the member states of the World Health Organization in 1987. It draws attention to the harm caused by tobacco use and supports people who want to quit.
World No Tobacco Day was created by the World Health Organization's member states to draw attention to the illness and deaths caused by tobacco. Tobacco harms nearly every organ of the body and is linked to cancers, heart disease and lung disease. Second-hand smoke also harms people who do not smoke, including children.
The day focuses on protecting people from tobacco, supporting those who want to quit and encouraging policies that make healthier choices easier.
How it is marked
Hospitals and health departments hold awareness camps and quit-support sessions. Schools and colleges run poster competitions, rallies and pledges against tobacco. Workplaces remind staff about smoke-free policies and share quitting resources. In India, awareness drives often cover smokeless forms as well as cigarettes and bidis, since chewing tobacco, gutka and khaini are common. Many people choose the day to begin their own quit attempt.
What to write
Be encouraging, never preachy, and celebrate progress however small.
- Three weeks without a cigarette. I know it has been hard, and I'm so proud of you.
- Quitting is hard, and you are doing it anyway. Lean on me whenever the cravings hit.
- I want many more years of chai and chats with you. Thank you for choosing your health.
How to wish someone on World No Tobacco Day
encouragement for someone trying to quit tobacco, and pride in every tobacco-free day
Write a few lines in your own words, pick a design and share it as one link on WhatsApp, Instagram or anywhere else. They open an animated card made just for them, with no app and no sign-up.
Language tip: English, Hindi + recipient language.
Frequently asked questions
Why is World No Tobacco Day on 31 May?
In 1987 the World Health Assembly created a day to highlight the harms of tobacco, and in 1988 it passed a resolution calling for it to be observed on 31 May each year. The date has stayed the same since.
How can offices mark World No Tobacco Day?
Offices can reinforce smoke-free rules, invite a doctor or counsellor to talk about quitting and share details of local quit-support services. Recognising colleagues who have quit can also encourage others.
What should I avoid writing to someone trying to quit tobacco?
Avoid blame, lectures or scare tactics, and do not shame someone who has slipped up. Short, supportive messages that recognise their effort tend to help far more.
When is World No Tobacco Day in 2026?
World No Tobacco Day 2026 falls on Sunday, 31 May 2026.
What is World No Tobacco Day?
World No Tobacco Day, held every year on 31 May, was created by the member states of the World Health Organization in 1987. It draws attention to the harm caused by tobacco use and supports people who want to quit.
Is World No Tobacco Day a public holiday?
Holiday status for World No Tobacco Day varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on World No Tobacco Day?
Focus on encouragement for someone trying to quit tobacco, and pride in every tobacco-free day. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated World No Tobacco Day card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .